Packaging Buyer in Bicester

Continually review packaging suppliers for cost and service while identifying new and innovative, cost-effective materials for site purchasing. Support and deputise for the Purchasing Manager.

Key Areas of Responsibility

(This list is not exhaustive and may be subject to change, in consultation with the post holder, in response to new circumstances)

• Support departments with packaging expertise in purchasing activities.
• Train colleagues (with the Purchasing Manager) on placing orders within the system, ensuring all inbound items have a purchase order.
• Support negotiation of supplier contracts with key stakeholders.
• Build and develop strong relationships with key suppliers and customers.
• Align purchasing activity with demand forecasts and track performance metrics.
• Analyse market trends and monitor price movements.
• Identify and source new and innovative packaging solutions for the business.
• Review supplier performance and ensure all new suppliers are approved by technical and finance teams prior to use.
• Provide cover for the Purchasing Manager in packaging-related areas.
• Maximise order value for goods and transport while minimising waste.
• Manage ERP/MRP systems, ensuring new products are set up correctly and stock parameters maintained.
• Ensure supplier compliance with quality and health & safety requirements.
• Plan the introduction of new packaging lines, ensuring deadlines are met and issues communicated to stakeholders.
• Maintain strong communication with suppliers and internal departments.
• Produce and maintain supply chain reports and support EPR requirements (e.g. working with Valpak).
• Work with accounts payable to ensure timely supplier payments and minimise invoice queries.
• Take ownership and control of product specifications and artwork.
• Communicate system, material or packaging changes to relevant stakeholders.

Person Specification

• Proven experience in production planning and purchasing within FMCG (Essential)
• Stock management experience (Desirable)
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems (Essential)
• Strong customer and supplier focus (Essential)
• Effective reporting skills with strong attention to detail (Desirable)
• Strong organisational, influencing and negotiation skills (Desirable)
• Analytical, communicative and creative problem-solving ability (Essential)
• Highly driven with ability to work independently under pressure (Essential)
• Team player at all levels (Essential)
• Positive, flexible and approachable attitude (Essential)

Key Competences

• Commercial awareness (Essential)
• Customer focus (internal and external) (Essential)
• Cost and efficiency focus (Essential)
• Self-control, awareness and motivation (Essential)